TEAMNORTHUMBRIA - WRICE IS RIGHT

Deirdre Hayes’ determination to challenge for top honours after last season’s third-placed finish led her straight to two-time All-Metro AAC first team pick Wrice.

And one of America’s rising stars looks like the perfect fit for roster looking to strengthen its outside threat.

“We took a major step last season in terms of our development and where we want to be as a team,” said Hayes.

“But we are not content and want to make another statement this season as to what we can achieve in the league

“We had several options but I knew the player I wanted and I’m in no doubt that Sabra Wrice is that player.”

New Jersey native Wrice ripped through the record books during her stint with Fairfield University.

The playmaker finished her four-year college career with 1,577 points - seventh in program history!

Wrice played 119 career games - second all-time - and was seventh all-time with 103 starts.

She finished fourth in Fairfield history with 220 career steals and 143 three-point field goals.

And last season Wrice enjoyed a stellar campaign with the women's basketball team.

She played an instrumental part in the Stags' 22-win year, leading the team in scoring with a 16.2 scoring average.

Wrice flew into Tyneside last week and has been training with Hayes before she makes her debut in the club’s opening game on October 18.

Coach Hayes will soon announce another big signing to bolster the team in what is expected to be a wide open season in Division 1.